To Jim Lapeyre concerning human illnesses in ferrets:
 
        Yes ferrets can get several human illnesses including colds and
influenza.  They can also pick up camylobacteriosis (a human diarrheal disease).
 
As far as exposure to the flu is concerned - ferrets need to be haevily exposed
- handled by a sick person - or come in contact with infected food or dishes to
pick it up - and even then it's a chancy thing.  Influenza in ferrets is much
like it is in humans - nasal discharge, malaise, sneezing, lethargy - except
that it can last 7-14 days.
 
        It's always a good idea to keep people who are or recently have been
sick away from your ferrets.
 
Bruce Williams, DVM
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[Posted in FML issue 0634]